2. Wright State Physicians 2013
Purpose
This training is designed to assist you in safe handling of liquid nitrogen.
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3. What’s the big deal? Its only Liquid Nitrogen! What could go wrong
Here is a picture of Liquid Nitrogen on the hand
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4. Wright State Physicians 2013
Acute Exposure
Signs and symptoms of overexposure to nitrogen may include;
Nausea
Drowsiness
blue coloration of the skin and lips
Unconsciousness
death
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5. Wright State Physicians 2013
Storage Guidelines
Liquid nitrogen must be only in well-ventilated areas
If working in a closed area, use an oxygen alarm to alert anyone in the room of oxygen-deficient atmosphere before dangerous levels are reached
Keep tanks in upright position in cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from heavy traffic areas
Nitrogen may not be stored with other compressed gases, such as oxygen or ozone
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6. More Storage Guidelines
Store Liquid Nitrogen
In cool and dry area
Well-ventilated space
In a tightly sealed container
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7. Personal Protective Equipment
Use of PPE is mandatory when decanting or entering an open container of liquid nitrogen to include;
Wearing cryo gloves loose enough so they can be thrown off easily and rapidly
Shielding skin with lab jackets, or long sleeved shirts and trousers
Rubber aprons, overalls without pockets or cuffs, and high top shoes are preferred
Chemical splash goggles and face shield to guard against splashes and possible vessel rupture causing flying debris
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8. What should I do if the liquid spills?
Allow the Liquid Nitrogen to evaporate
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9. Wright State Physicians 2013
Nitrogen is a simple asphyxiant that is without other significant physiologic effects.
Inhalation of nitrogen is dangerous only when it lowers the available oxygen in air to below life-sustaining levels
Principle hazard associated with liquid nitrogen is rapid freezing of fingers, hands, or other tissues that contact the liquid
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10. Wright State Physicians 2013
Chronic Exposure
No signs or symptoms of chronic exposure to nitrogen have been reported in humans
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11. What PPE should be worn when handling Liquid Nitrogen?
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12. Thank you for participating.
Check with your supervisor as to where your department’s PPE are stored.
For further questions, contact your supervisor or
Marta Kennedy, Compliance Director at
(937)
Please complete the Liquid Nitrogen Quiz and submit answers to your supervisor.
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